The United States is currently facing challenges in its lithium supply, according to industry experts. “The United States is barely on the playing field today with lithium supply, and we are vulnerable because of that,” said Crowley after a recent event. He emphasized the need for increased domestic production to reduce dependence on foreign sources.
In Nevada, two major lithium mining projects are underway. Lithium Americas is preparing to begin construction on its Thacker Pass project near Orovada, which could produce up to 80,000 tons of lithium annually starting in 2028. Ioneer is also advancing its Rhyolite Ridge project in Esmeralda County, with potential annual production of 22,000 tons of lithium carbonate by 2026.
Currently, most large-scale lithium production occurs in countries like Chile, Australia, and China—the latter being the largest refiner of lithium carbonate globally. Moving production and refining processes to the U.S. could decrease reliance on these foreign sources.
“We have all the components here in Nevada — every piece in the supply chain is represented at some level,” Crowley stated. He noted that there is significant support from state and federal officials as well as universities for diversifying energy resources.
Jim Hodge from Lithion Battery pointed out that other critical components of batteries are also sourced primarily from abroad. Caleb Cage from the Nevada Battery Coalition highlighted Nevada's unique position with companies operating at each stage of the lithium supply chain within the state.
Lithium America's Thacker Pass project has been a long-term effort spanning nearly 15 years and involves substantial investment and workforce requirements. The Department of Energy’s Loan Progress Office has conditionally agreed to loan $2.26 billion for this project, with General Motors contributing an additional $650 million under a partnership agreement.
Crowley expressed optimism about Nevada's future role in battery production: “This state is going to be a battery powerhouse.” The upcoming Nevada lithium summit organized by Governor Joe Lombardo will further discuss these developments.